readiness

noun

read·​i·​ness ˈre-dē-nəs 

: the quality or state of being ready: such as

a

: a state of preparation

As Apollo approached readiness, a new system for validating flight hardware came into use.

—William Hines

… conditions that prevented all regiments being brought to battle readiness simultaneously …

—Graham A. Cosmas

Pym presented himself at the entrance to the school drive in readiness for Mr. Cudlove's arrival.

—John Le Carré

b

: prompt willingness

Kostunica has already expressed his readiness to talk with independence-minded leaders in Montenegro …

—Joshua Hammer et al.

Civil War reportage owed its successes also to the readiness of the military to accept photography as a new visual tool …

—Naomi Rosenblum

c

: ease, facility

The introduction was followed up on his side by a happy readiness of conversation

—Jane Austen

Examples of readiness in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, there are many factors to consider, from personal readiness and market conditions to available resources and support. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025

Experts and lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have raised concerns about how the changes may impair storm readiness and recovery. —Robert Shackelford, CNN, 17 Mar. 2025

Soft skills Skills like communication, teamwork, adaptability and problem-solving are key indicators of job readiness. —Phil Blair, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Mar. 2025

One of the organization’s investment highlights is a job readiness program by the Center for Independent Living in Berkeley. —Calmatters, The Mercury News, 14 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for readiness

• steadiness
• unsteadiness